Scrim Jim Cine Double Net Fabric: When to Use It

By Westcott | Published: 2026-11-04

Category: How-to Guides

Double net cuts roughly two stops of light. Learn when to reach for Scrim Jim Cine Double Net Fabric, how it differs from single net, and how to rig it without over-darkening your scene.

Quick answer

Use Scrim Jim Cine Double Net Fabric when a light is still too hot after diffusion or when you need to knock down a bright or busy background without changing the fixture. It removes roughly two stops, so start with single net if you only need a gentle trim.

Double net vs single net: how much light you actually lose

A single net typically removes about one stop and a double net about two. That difference matters because stacking two single nets is not the same as one double net: you add another frame, more setup time, and more chances for a gap or sag. If your meter tells you the key is two stops over, go straight to double net rather than doubling up.

The trade-off is control versus flexibility. Double net is efficient when you know you need a heavy cut, but it is harder to fine-tune. If your scene may shift during the shoot, keep a single net on hand so you can step between one and two stops without rebuilding the rig.

When double net is the right tool, and when it is not

Double net earns its place when you are cutting light intensity on set but still want the shape of the source to read, such as taming a hard window or reducing a bright background behind a subject. It also helps cut busy or bright backgrounds that pull attention from the subject without turning the whole frame into shadow.

It is not a substitute for diffusion when you need softer shadows, and it is not a substitute for a solid flag when you need a complete blackout. If the goal is to shape light rather than reduce it, choose a diffusion or bounce fabric instead. Also check that your frame and stand can handle the added surface area before you commit.

Sizing and placement: why 4' x 6' is a common starting point

The 4' x 6' size covers a portrait or small group without towering over a compact set, which makes it a practical first double net for on-location work. Larger frames cut more of a wide scene but need sturdier support and more room to angle. If your subject fills a wider frame, plan to combine sizes or move the net closer to the light rather than forcing a small fabric to cover too much.

Placement changes the result as much as the fabric. Closer to the light, the cut is softer-edged and harder to control precisely; closer to the subject, the edge is more defined and easier to see in frame. Watch for the net edge appearing in shot when you work close to the subject.

How to cut light with Scrim Jim Cine Double Net Fabric

Meter the light before you rig anything: Take a reading at the subject with the light at its intended output, then compare it with your target exposure. Common mistake: guessing by eye and grabbing double net when a single net would have been enough. Write down the stop difference so you can confirm the cut after rigging.
Choose double net only when you need about two stops: If the reading is roughly two stops hot, go to double net. If it is one stop hot, start with single net and keep double net nearby for a quick swap. Checkpoint: confirm the fabric is the double net version, not a single net, before mounting.
Mount the fabric to the Scrim Jim Cine frame: Lay the frame flat, align the fabric, and press the touch fastener lining down along each side. Common mistake: leaving a corner loose, which lets the net sag and creates an uneven cut across the frame. Run a hand along the fastener after mounting to confirm every edge is seated.
Position the frame between the light and the subject: Start with the net close to the light for a softer, broader cut, then move it toward the subject if you need a more defined edge. Checkpoint: look through the camera to make sure the frame edge and stand are out of shot.
Re-meter and adjust in single-stop steps: Take a new reading at the subject and compare it with your target. If you are still hot, add a single net or move the double net closer to the light rather than stacking another double net. Common mistake: over-cutting and then trying to bring the level back with a brighter fixture. If the scene may change, keep a single net on set so you can step between one and two stops.
Secure the stand and check the background: Confirm the stand is weighted and the frame cannot pivot in wind or on uneven ground. Then check that the cut is landing on the background as intended, not just on the subject. Checkpoint: walk the frame line once before rolling.

Product facts

Scrim Jim Cine Double Net Fabric (4' x 6'): Double net fabric designed for the Scrim Jim and Scrim Jim Cine light control systems, with a durable touch fastener lining. The fastener lining mounts instantly to a Scrim Jim Cine frame, so you can add or remove the cut without extra rigging.
Scrim Jim Cine Double Net Fabric (4' x 6')